By Ishongkun Kurbah csc –
Readings: Ez 2:2-5; 2Cor 12:7-10; Mk 6:1-6
It could be a stereotype at the time of Jesus that the child of simple and poor parents could not be expected to become great, intelligent, and wise. How could Jesus, a son of carpenter and a carpenter himself, teach in a synagogue and know the laws and interpret them so well?
At that time learning and teaching the laws were reserved only to the scribes, the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Jesus broke the stereotype and amazed everyone. They were all astounded and could not accept that a carpenter was capable of teaching and interpreting the law to them. How could a carpenter do that? Where did he learn things pertaining to the law?
From where did he get all the wisdom and knowledge? Jealousy and arrogance had blindfolded their eyes, and they failed to see the goodness and wisdom of Jesus just because he was a carpenter; and above all he spoke the truth. Jealousy gives way to grudges and hatred and arrogance destroys humility. Surely, we have witnessed and even experienced how jealousy can lead to brokenness in families, friendship, peace in community and in oneself. And those with arrogance are rude, stubborn, and contemptuous toward the other as it keeps the person aloof and not receptive to suggestions for improvement and growth.
The leaders of the Jewish community were jealous of Jesus’ growing fame and popularity, so they planned to kill him. And their arrogance prevented them to accept the truth of what Jesus said about them. We may sometimes find ourselves to be jealous of others’ success, achievements, or gifts. We could sometimes be arrogant too, especially if we are challenged by those we consider to be not smarter than us and when people speak the truth that is hurtful for us to hear and accept. As human beings, we must face struggles against the evil forces that can prevent us from knowing the truth that God wants to speak to us. Let us pray that we become humble and receptive so that Jesus can do lots of wonders in and through our lives.